President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky held a meeting with the president of the media corporation "Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty," Stephen Capus.
Volodymyr Zelensky and Stephen Capus discussed the work of journalists in Ukraine amidst Russian aggression. The head of state particularly praised international media, including Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, for covering Russian military crimes, debunking disinformation, and keeping events in Ukraine in the world's spotlight.
The president of the media corporation informed the head of state about the situation regarding Radio Free Europe journalist Vladyslav Yesypenko, who has been imprisoned in temporarily occupied Crimea for nearly three years. Stephen Capus emphasized the importance of the journalist's prompt release.
"For nearly three years now, Radio Free Europe journalist Vladyslav Yesypenko has been behind bars in the illegally annexed Crimea on fabricated charges. Vlad was simply reporting the truth about Russia's occupation of Crimea. His release would send a strong signal that people who speak the truth are not forgotten even during these difficult times. We appreciate all efforts to ensure Vlad returns to his wife Katerina and daughter Stefania as soon as possible," said Stephen Capus.
He noted that Radio Free Europe journalists cover the realities of the war in Ukraine, as well as demonstrate the courage and resilience of the Ukrainian people to the world. They work on the frontline, expose Russia's war crimes, and inform about democratic reforms in Ukraine.
Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that during all meetings with foreign leaders, he raises the issue of exchanging Ukrainians, including political prisoners, who are illegally held by occupiers.
"It is very important for us to bring all hostages home. We are working on it. This is hard work, especially regarding the return of Crimeans, especially journalists, political prisoners," said the President of Ukraine.
The head of state informed Stephen Capus about the preparation of an inaugural peace summit at the leaders' level, scheduled to be held in Switzerland. Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that one of the agenda items for the peace summit will be the issue of exchanging prisoners.
"We talk a lot about the individual issues of this summit. We want to get certain results after it. And one of the issues may be the position regarding the exchange of prisoners," said the President of Ukraine.
